Is it okay to drink tea and coffee every day?

December 20, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the FDA, up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day is considered safe for most healthy adults, a threshold that can be met by drinking both coffee and tea daily. The answer to "is it okay to drink tea and coffee every day?" lies in understanding moderation, individual sensitivities, and potential health impacts.

Quick Summary

For most healthy adults, consuming both coffee and tea daily within moderate caffeine limits is safe and potentially beneficial, though sensitivities vary. Potential health benefits include reduced risk of chronic diseases, while excessive intake can lead to negative side effects like anxiety or insomnia. The key is moderation and being mindful of your body's signals.

Key Points

Moderation is Key: Most healthy adults can safely consume up to 400mg of caffeine daily by drinking both tea and coffee in moderation.
Health Benefits: Both beverages are rich in antioxidants and are linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.
Manage Caffeine: Pay attention to your body's sensitivity, as too much caffeine can cause anxiety, jitters, and sleep problems.
Mindful Consumption: Avoid adding excessive sugar or high-fat creamers to maintain the health benefits of tea and coffee.
Know Your Drink: Coffee offers a stronger, more immediate energy boost, while tea, with its L-theanine content, provides a calmer, more sustained alertness.
Listen to Your Body: If you experience negative side effects like stomach upset or a rapid heart rate, it may be a signal to reduce your daily intake.

The Case for Daily Coffee and Tea Consumption

Research indicates that consuming coffee and tea in moderation offers potential health benefits due to their high antioxidant content. Both beverages contain polyphenols that help fight oxidative stress and inflammation, which are linked to many chronic diseases.

Potential Health Benefits of Coffee

Moderate daily coffee intake has been associated with several health advantages, including a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and certain cancers. It may also protect against heart disease and stroke, improve cognitive function, and offer liver protection. Coffee may also benefit the gut microbiome.

The Health Advantages of Daily Tea

Tea, generally lower in caffeine, also provides health benefits from compounds like L-theanine and its unique polyphenol profile. L-theanine promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Regularly drinking tea may improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Tea's L-theanine also contributes to a smoother, more sustained energy boost compared to coffee. Additionally, the hydrating properties of tea generally outweigh its mild diuretic effect.

The Risks and When to Rethink Your Daily Habit

While beneficial, excessive consumption of coffee and tea can pose risks, mainly due to high caffeine intake. Individual tolerance varies.

Potential Risks of Overconsumption

High caffeine intake can lead to anxiety, jitters, and sleep disruption. It may also cause digestive issues by increasing stomach acid, potentially leading to heartburn. For some individuals, high daily intake can temporarily increase blood pressure. Regular, high-dose consumption can also lead to dependency and withdrawal symptoms.

Comparison of Coffee vs. Tea for Daily Consumption

Here's a comparison to help inform your daily choices:


Feature	Coffee (Moderate Intake)	Tea (Moderate Intake)
Caffeine Level	Higher (typically 95-200 mg per 8 oz)	Lower (typically 30-50 mg per 8 oz)
Energy Effect	Stronger, faster-acting boost; can cause jitteriness	Milder, more sustained boost due to L-theanine
Impact on Anxiety	Higher levels of caffeine can increase anxiety and cortisol levels	L-theanine promotes relaxation and reduces stress
Polyphenol Content	High; rich in chlorogenic acid	High, especially green tea; rich in catechins and L-theanine
Digestive Impact	Can increase stomach acid and cause irritation	Less likely to cause digestive issues; generally milder
Cardiovascular Health	Numerous studies link to reduced risk of heart disease	Some studies show benefits for blood pressure and cholesterol

How to Find Your Sweet Spot

Finding a healthy balance means listening to your body, as tolerance varies.

Monitor Your Intake: The FDA recommends up to 400 mg of caffeine daily for healthy adults. Track your consumption from all sources.
Time Your Consumption: Avoid caffeine in the late afternoon or evening to prevent sleep issues.
Personalize Your Preference: If sensitive to coffee, tea or decaf options are good alternatives.
Beware of Additives: Excessive sugar or high-fat creamers reduce the health benefits; opt for lower-calorie additions.

Conclusion

Drinking tea and coffee daily is generally acceptable and can be healthy in moderation. By managing your total caffeine intake and observing your body's response, you can enjoy these beverages without negative effects. The key is to balance the potential risks of caffeine with their antioxidant properties.

For more information on the effects of caffeine, refer to the FDA's official consumer update.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, it is not inherently bad to mix coffee and tea on the same day. The primary concern is the total daily caffeine intake. As long as the combined amount remains within safe limits (typically under 400mg for most adults), it is perfectly fine.

For most healthy adults, exceeding 400mg of caffeine per day, which is roughly equivalent to four 8-ounce cups of brewed coffee, is considered excessive and may lead to side effects. For tea, this would equate to a higher number of cups, as it contains less caffeine per serving.

Caffeine can cause a temporary spike in blood pressure. While regular consumption may minimize this effect over time, individuals with high blood pressure should consult their doctor to determine a safe daily limit, especially if they are sensitive to caffeine.

Both coffee and tea have a mild diuretic effect, but their hydrating properties generally outweigh this. Research suggests that normal, moderate consumption does not cause dehydration.

Yes, decaffeinated options are excellent alternatives, especially for those sensitive to caffeine, pregnant women, or those who want to reduce their intake. Decaf versions still contain some beneficial antioxidants.

Drinking low-calorie beverages like plain coffee and tea in place of sugary drinks can aid weight loss. Coffee can also stimulate metabolism. However, adding sugar and cream can negate these effects.

Common signs of caffeine sensitivity include increased anxiety, nervousness, jitters, or insomnia even after consuming small to moderate amounts. If you experience these symptoms, it is best to reduce your intake.